Global Service Framework: Diabetes

Lions Clubs have a tradition of raising awareness of diabetes, and working with those affected by the disease. According to the World Health Organization, diabetes is a growing world epidemic that will affect over 642 million people by 2040. It is a leading cause of blindness in many countries. It can also lead to heart attack, stroke, organ failure, nerve damage, and limb amputations. Because of these statistics, Lions Clubs have established Diabetes Programs. The goal is to promote diabetes awareness, education, prevention, detection, control, and research.

STRIDES WALK

One way that Lions Clubs promote diabetes awareness is by hosting a Strides Walk. This is a family event where community members gather to walk. The walk enforces the importance of exercise to those living with diabetes and those at risk for diabetes. Other Strides events could include activities such as running, cycling, and dancing. Strides Walks are local events sponsored by local Lions Clubs.

DIABETES CAMPS FOR KIDS

Another Lions Club Program focused on diabetes is Diabetes Camp for Kids. There are two types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes usually occurs in childhood or young adulthood. Type 1 diabetes cannot be cured, and must be treated with insulin. Type 2 diabetes generally affects adults (but becoming more prevalent in children) and can be treated by a healthy diet and weight, as well as exercise. Diabetes Camps offer children with type 1 diabetes a chance to attend a summer camp that they may not otherwise be able to safely attend.

Print Service Announcement: Two Reasons I Find Time to Prevent Diabetes [English only] (iad328)

OTHER SERVICE PROJECT IDEAS

Since each Lions Club is tasked with serving its community, there are many service projects and ideas for local Clubs. There are many opportunities for people to volunteer with the Shawnee Lions Club. The Lions Cub International has published a list of 25 ideas for local clubs.

THE SHAWNEE LIONS CLUB NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

If you want to know what the Lions Club does, diabetes awareness is a good start. But there’s much more. Lions Clubs around the world have a Global Service Framework that focuses on 5 key areas: Diabetes, The Environment, Hunger Relief, Pediatric Cancer, and Vision.

The Shawnee Lions Club needs to grow in order to fulfill the obligations from these service areas. If you live in the Shawnee area and want to volunteer in the community, we have many opportunities for you! Please contact us and let us know you are interested in becoming a Lion and making a difference!

For information on how you can volunteer with the Shawnee Lions Club, Just Ask!